A recent study found that the average budget for an engagement ring was $7.4k. If you’re going to splash out on finding the perfect diamond for your engagement, then the cut will matter.
Emerald and radiant cut are two of the most popular diamond shapes for engagement rings. It can be hard to make an informed decision about which one is best for you and your partner.
Both of these diamond cuts offer stunning sparkle and shine. They are also available in many different sizes. These range from small accent stones to larger statement pieces.
If you’re trying to decide between emerald cut and radiant cut diamonds, then this article is for you. Here’s a detailed guide on what you need to know about these cuts.
History of the Cuts
Before we begin, it’s good to understand a little bit about the history of the two cuts. Essentially, one has a more classic look, while the other is cut using more modern techniques.
Emerald Cut
The Emerald Cut diamond style has been celebrated for centuries. It dates back to its Table Cut predecessor in the 1500s. It is most closely linked to Art Deco’s love of symmetry and clean lines. This cut continues to stand out even today as a timeless classic.
The “Emerald Cut” was originally used to cut emeralds, but it wasn’t until the ’20s that this type of diamond-cutting technique earned its rightful name. Then in the 1940s, advanced diamond-cutting tools made it possible for Emerald Cuts to be further perfected and standardized with such a refined shape and sleek design.
Radiant Cut
In 1977, Henry Grossbard innovated a stunning cutting style: the Radiant Cut. This diamond is one of the brightest due to its hybrid design, which emphasizes facets in both the crown and pavilion of each stone. This is something that had never been done before!
With his ingenious technique, he managed to unlock an unparalleled brilliance for diamonds everywhere and has revolutionized how we view their beauty today.
Radiant Cut vs Emerald Cut – What Are the Differences?
Are you confused about the distinction between radiant and emerald diamonds, despite their seemingly similar shape? Let us explore what sets these different kinds of diamonds apart.
Facet Arrangement
Every type of diamond cut has facets. These are the flat surfaces that form the shape, brilliance, and fire of a diamond.
The Emerald Cut is a rectangular-shaped diamond with cut corners. These parallel step-cut facets offer an alluring “hall of mirrors” effect that produces subtle yet dazzling flashes of light – far more elegant than those created by a Radiant Cut.
Radiant Cut diamonds boast a rectangular or square shape, with kite-shaped facets radiating from the core. These beautiful stones are then crafted in such an artful way that their unique silhouette allows them to radiate stunningly vibrant fire and brilliance.
- Emerald cut diamonds have about 57 facets
- Radiant cut diamonds have about 70 facets
This higher number of facets on the radiant cut allows for more sparkle to shine through than with the emerald cut. Even though Imperfections can be noticed much easier on emerald cuts compared to radiants, their arrangement also helps mask yellow tints.
Dimensions
Emerald cut diamonds are renowned for their length-to-width ratio of 1.40, meaning the width is usually around 40% of its total length. Meanwhile, radiant cut stones tout an optimal ratio of 1.25 between dimensions—length and width alike.
To put it simply, the width of a diamond should be around 25% of the length. However, these jewels can differ in size and shape when it comes to measurements.
Emerald cut diamonds usually have lengths-to-widths that range between 1.30 to 1.50 ratios, while a radiant cut has an interval from 1.05 – 1.50 instead.
Carat Weight vs. Visual Size
Emerald Cut and Radiant Cut diamonds are more visually impactful than round brilliant cut diamonds of the same weight. The table on Emerald Cuts is larger compared to similarly weighted round brilliant diamonds, resulting in a bigger visual appearance overall.
A Radiant Cut can appear larger than a round brilliant of the same weight, even though it has a slightly smaller face-up measurement.
Grossbard’s ambition was to develop a diamond cut that appeared as substantial as can be. He accomplished his goal by blending an extensive yet shallow design with intensely radiant faceting.
Not only do these stones exude elegance, but they are also designed to give the wearer’s fingers a more slender and elongated appearance.
Engagement Ring Styles
The two different cuts work better in different styles of engagement rings. Choosing between a radiant cut and an emerald cut will depend on the style of ring you want to buy; this can be either mined or lab grown diamonds.
Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Rings
Emerald cut diamonds are perfect for any occasion and make an elegant statement in solitaire, halo, or diamond band settings.
With a solo setting, the precious gem will truly stand out from all angles as it fully captures attention on its own.
Halo designs further enhance its brilliance with additional gems encircling the main stone to create an illusion of size.
Finally, diamond bands permit you to unleash maximum sparkle while showcasing your center stone in full glory!
Radiant Cut Diamond Engagement Rings
Radiant cut diamonds are absolutely stunning when placed in a solitaire setting, where their sparkle can be the focal point.
With diamond band settings, radiant diamonds still shine brightly while being complemented by the petite side diamonds that encircle them.
If you want to make your center diamond look larger and more prominent, a three-stone setting is ideal since two smaller side stones help draw attention to it.
Which Cut Are You Going to Choose?
When it comes to choosing between an emerald cut or a radiant cut diamond, the choice is ultimately up to personal preference. Both cuts offer unique advantages and disadvantages when it comes to sparkle, visual size, faceting, and length-to-width ratio.
When considering which option will work best for you, consider your desired engagement ring style as well as how much brilliance you want to be emitted from the stone. Whichever one you choose in the end will undoubtedly be a stunning addition to your special occasion! For inspiration, visit Finer Custom Jewelry to see what catches your eye.
